In my recent engagements and conversations, a clear pattern has emerged. Clients are subtly but consistently asking for less of certain things and more of others. This isn't a dismissal of important topics like AI or future possibilities; rather, it reflects a shift in how audiences are experiencing and absorbing information.
Less of the Generic, More of the Specific:
Clients are asking for less broad, generic AI overviews. They've heard the general "what's coming," but what they truly need is context around timing and sequence. They want to understand how multiple forces are interacting right now, not just a long list of unconnected future possibilities. The desire is for prioritized insights that can be acted upon, not an overwhelming cascade of potential scenarios.
Furthermore, they are seeking less high-energy inspiration without clear orientation. While enthusiasm is valuable, the real need is for language that helps people talk about change internally and for fewer, more impactful ideas that truly stick, rather than content that sounds impressive but is difficult to translate back into the organization.
The Shift in How We Work:
This evolving client demand is shaping how I approach my work on stage and in workshops. The focus is tightening: we're aiming for tighter framing and less coverage, prioritizing sensemaking over prediction. Every engagement is increasingly designed to first settle the room by providing a grounding understanding, before stretching minds with new possibilities. The ultimate goal is for audiences to leave not just energized, but clearer about what matters next and how to act.
Where This Approach Lands Best:
This focus on clarity, context, and actionable foresight is particularly effective in environments where leaders are already feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Think:
- Conferences where delegates are navigating complex industry shifts.
- Leadership offsites needing a strategic reset and a clear path forward.
- Strategy days that feel overfull with ideas but lack concrete direction.
- Executive and board sessions seeking clarity and practical orientation, rather than just hype.
If you find yourself hearing from clients that they've "heard all this before, but it still feels messy," that's a strong signal that this approach, focused on making complexity usable and driving meaningful action, will resonate deeply.
My calendar is opening up for Europe in late March through mid-April, and for Canada/North America from around April 20th. If you have a brief or a client engagement in mind where this focused, clarity-driven foresight could make a difference, please send it through. I'm always happy to offer my view on how we can best address your specific needs.
